Israel Resumes Airstrikes in Gaza, Over 400 Casualties Reported
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — In a significant escalation of violence, Israel launched a series of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians, including a high number of women and children. This attack marks the end of a ceasefire that had been in place since January and is described as the deadliest day in a 17-month conflict with Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after Hamas rejected demands to alter the existing ceasefire agreement. In a televised statement, he declared the airstrikes "only the beginning," emphasizing Israel’s commitment to dismantling Hamas and securing the release of hostages.
The strikes prompted fears of renewed conflict just as aid organizations reported severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel within Gaza, where 2 million residents have faced increasing hardship. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported at least 404 deaths and more than 560 injuries, with many casualties coming from families targeted in their homes.
As violence resumed, the Israeli military warned residents to evacuate eastern Gaza. The situation has been further complicated by the involvement of regional players, with the U.S. expressing support for Israel’s actions while targeting Iran-aligned forces in the region.
While Netanyahu’s government faces criticism for its handling of hostages and escalating military action, the strikes may bolster his political support. Protests continue within Israel, demanding the return of hostages and advocating for a ceasefire. Most significantly, families of those held captive expressed dismay over the revival of hostilities, which they fear jeopardizes their loved ones’ safety.
This latest round of conflict highlights the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the challenges of achieving a lasting peace in the region.
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